End abuse.

According to some sources, the vast majority of violent criminal offenders have abused animals as well. And a 1997 survey of "50 of the largest shelters for battered women in the United States found that 85% of women and 63% of children entering shelters discussed incidents of pet abuse in the family." There's a connection between pet abuse, child abuse, elder abuse, and domestic violence. The Dekalb County Police Department and many other public service organizations have recognized this link and now see animal abuse as a possible sign of other forms of abuse. Learn to recognize these signs. Report abuse.

--> If something about your relationship with your partner scares you and you need to talk, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). Fax: 512-453-8541 Address: PO Box 161810, Austin, Texas 78716.

--> If you need help or suspect child abuse, call 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453). Professional counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in 140 languages.

--> If you are suffering elder abuse or neglect (or know someone who is) call 911, the Eldercare Locater (1-800-677-1116) or your state elder abuse hotline.

Learn more about animal cruelty so that you are prepared if you witness pet or animal abuse. Laws vary by state and are summarized in this CD. Or if you prefer, enter your ZIP code here to get a list of shelters in your area. For more on the links between these forms of abuse, read these papers.

Prevent violence before it starts. Stop the abuse cycle. No person or animal deserves such treatment.